CatBus, just as one shouldn’t ignore the beginning of the 2nd Amendment, one shouldn’t ignore the “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms.” When you recall that the 2nd Amendment was a restriction on the federal government and a preservation of state authority, the existence and meaning of each phrase makes perfect sense. You’re correct there are legal theories for all kinds of rights not explicit in the Constitution.
How would you feel if the second amendment were to be repealed?
As a fan of federalism and someone who appreciates that self-defense and hunting are legitimate activities and basic liberties, not good. States should have broader authority to restrict firearms. Let Texans have their guns but outlaw them in NYC if that’s what they want. Even if it can’t go that far, given that we have the 14th Amendment, there are greater restrictions on firearms that might be allowed.